The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) in MIMAROPA conducted two batches of the Provincial Orientation on the Youth Internship Program for Children of Coconut Farmers in February 2026, reaching a total of 46 young beneficiaries in Palawan and Marinduque.
The orientation aimed to provide information on the program’s requirements, eligibility, and application process, as well as to raise awareness among more youth about the program and encourage them to apply.
The first batch took place on February 19, 2026 at Alba Farm, Brooke’s Point, Palawan, with 22 participants. Alba Farm, a certified Learning Site for Agriculture under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) and an ongoing internship host, welcomed the participants, with farm owner Mr. Gabriel Alba sharing a brief history of the farm. In her message, Engr. Noeme Kate Ben-ek, Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA)-Palawan representative, encouraged the interns to actively participate in the program.
Ms. Cristina G. Magnaye, Training Specialist III from ATI-MIMAROPA, presented an overview of the program and led the orientation, answering questions and addressing concerns. Current interns from the first batch shared their experiences, highlighting how the program helped them acquire new skills and opened opportunities for personal growth. The activity concluded with a field visit to the applicants’ areas.
Van Ellen Joe Dulay from Barong-Barong, Brooke’s Point, said that the program is a great opportunity for out-of-school youth. “Even if we cannot attend school, we can still learn skills that we would not be able to practice at home,” he added.
The second batch was held on February 25, 2026 at Hotel Marinduque, Boac, Marinduque, with 24 participants. Ms. Roseanne D. Nilo, CFIDP Alternate Point Person from ATI-MIMAROPA, explained the eligibility, application process, and requirements for the internship. She emphasized that the program targets individual beneficiaries and that the Business Enterprise Proposal should focus on coconut-related enterprises to ensure feasibility.
Ms. Meriel Lacdao of PCA-Marinduque discussed health and medical services under the CFIDP, including available medical assistance programs and procedures to access support. The activity also provided information about the Mentoring and Attracting Youth in Agribusiness (MAYA) Program, encouraging more young people to appreciate agriculture and explore related business opportunities.
“The orientation was very helpful. We learned about opportunities for youth who want to start businesses but lack capital. It is a great chance to appreciate agriculture and develop skills while we are still young,” shared Mr. Geric H. Hizole.
Both batches showcase ATI and its partners’ unwavering commitment to uplifting youth from coconut-farming families. By providing skills training, mentorship, and business guidance, the program is opening doors to new opportunities and empowering the next generation of innovative farmers and entrepreneurs.
